Reds in confident mood

Rafa Benitez has described Tuesday's record-breaking 8-0 win over Besiktas as the 'perfect day' for the under-fire club.

Liverpool were on the brink of exiting the UEFA Champions League after a disappointing loss to Besiktas in Turkey but they bounced back in dramatic style to prove to doubters that they still have what it takes.

Despite still being unbeaten in domestic competition, Liverpool have been struggling to secure a win in the league which has resulted in further demand for the players and the manager to perform.

And perform they did in a goal-fest at Anfield which saw the pressure lift off a relieved Benitez.

The result was a great way to celebrate the news of the expected go-ahead from the city planners for the club's revamped £400million new stadium in Stanley Park.

"I suppose it is the perfect day," said Benitez of Tuesday night's emphatic win.

"It was very positive for the club to put themselves in the record books with eight goals and the biggest ever Champions League win on the day that we could have our new stadium.

"To produce a result and a record score on the same day as the stadium is given the go-ahead has made many people very happy. It was almost my perfect day!"

Every goal counts

Liverpool are by no means through to the last 16 and have yet to face Porto at Anfield on November 28 before travelling to Marseille on December 11, with victories required in both games.

"I do not feel the players had on their minds that there was pressure on me and the club," added Benitez. "I feel they only knew they needed to win, and they knew they have succeeded in different matches in the past.

"We know our confidence is back. Everybody can now believe we can beat Porto, and then Marseille.

"We have re-affirmed our strength in Europe, we can be there and qualify because we have done things like this before."